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May 31st, 2025- The stories behind Crafted in BC wines from Clos du Soleil and Niche Wine.

May 31, 2025 Tasting Room Radio 0:51:38

hello

The stories behind 2024  Crafted in BC Wines from Clos du Soleil and Niche Wine.

THE SHOW 

Have you tasted any Crafted in BC Wines ?  Have you bought any Crafted in BC wines?

If the answer is no, I have a question – Why?  These are excellent wines , made by Canadian winemakers & wineries, from prime Washington grapes. They need your support,  BC wine fans.

BC wineries were hugely affected by two winter cold snaps. With vineyard losses up and down the Okanagan Valley.

To save their farms and family businesses, they were given the option to head for Washington & Oregon.

They worked with growers down south, so they had grapes to work with last year and wines to release this year!  Thank you, Washington wine growers.

 

The wines are outstanding. 

 

They’re also historic because this is the first and hopefully last time such a situation will happen again.

Every grower is adapting and learning from this crisis. Some are planting completely different varietals and some are replanting vineyards that died but placing them in different locations to avoid pockets of freezing cold.

 

It’s admirable response to the damage but what does it matter,  if you, the consumer, couldn’t care less.

So…my hope is that if we keep interviewing wine leaders over the course of this year, many of you will actually step up and throw down some cash and show huge support for Crafted in BC Wines.

Canadian Wine my friends. Buy Canada.

 

This weeks guests are:

 

Michael Clark – Winemaker, Co-Owner, GM.  Clos Du Soleil (Similkameen Valley)

Michael Clark

Highly respected wines and winery.  Very “hands on” growing and winemaking.

How would Michael and the team handle fruit that was not their own?  What varietals would they choose and why?

 

Here’s the Clos du Soleil list of Crafted in BC releases: 

 

From  Washington Series: (beautifully yummy)

2024 Sauvignon Blanc Horse Heaven Hills $25.90

2024 Chardonnay  Yakima $25.90

2024 Rose    Yakima $25.90

 

From the Similkameen

2022  Syrah – Sublime! Co-fermented with Viognier in concrete tanks. “different from any other Syrah in the World, including the Okanagan”  Upper Bench Similkameen $39.90

2021 Signature Bordeaux Blend. Glorious! Merlot(34) Cab(32) Cab Franc(18) Malbec(9) Petit Verdot(7) $55.90

 

From the Lumiere Collection (Washington fruit. Crafted in BC))

New 9% Rose (Sangiovese)  $25.90

New 9% Sauvignon Blanc $25.90

All small lots and low alcohol.  You’re going to like it!!!

Sauvignon Blanc 2024 Washington Series

Also releasing  today –

Signature 2021. Their flagship red from a fantastic growing year. $55.90

 

The Tasting Room is now open Thursday through Monday. In June, they throw open the doors 7 days a week.

 

www.closdusoleil.ca

Second Guest –

Joanna Schlosser –  Co-Founder & CEO.  Niche Wine Co (West Kelowna)

Small Batch. Big Love

First, they fought and essentially lost a battle with the McDougal Creek Fire and then 2 Winter cold snaps badly damaged their vineyards. With the help of the wine community, friends and family, James and Joanna fought their way back to something resembling “almost normal.”  Commendable fighters.

You can find them and their vineyards in the hills of West Kelowna. Let me tell you why it’s well worth the trip.

 

2024 Crafted in BC Wines 

2024 Small Wonder Rosé

2024 Small Wonder Rose (Washington) Delish!

2024 Pinot Gris (Washington)

2022   Extra Mile Pinot Noir (16 months in barrel) best of the best of the best

2022 Extra Mile  Cabernet Franc – wow!

NV Counsellor Foch – Before he took the role of grape farmer,  Joanna’s partner James’ Dad Jerry was the Crown Prosecutor in Kelowna and the visionary who dreamed of planting these vines.  Truly,  years in the making.

 

On the nose, raisins, chocolate. With flavors of blackberry, ripe plum and nutty notes.

 

Joanna and I also talk about 

Their Farmhouse Series (Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay)

2024 Small Batch Bubbles

The hot diggity dog wiener truck weekly visit (every second Wednesday starting June 11)

El Taquero (every second Friday starting June 27)

The Hilltop Bar and Patio is open 7 days a week.

 

And best of all The Outside Inn is available – but don’t wait, All three cabins are busy.

Everyone has a dream of staying at a farm/winery in hotel style comfort and being surrounded by vineyards.

Soaker tubs, rain shower, fully stocked fridge and a turntable. 

Dream on!!

 

www.nichewinecompany.com

 

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

Natural Wine Festival – Victoria

Crafted in BC Wines – New Releases

Township 7

Kismet

Dirty Laundry

Mulligan Stew May 31st 2025- Special Guest Dan Mangan-New Album ‘ Natural Light’

May 30, 2025 Mulligan Stew

hello

A year ago, Dan Mangan asked the players in his road band to join him at a cottage to demo the songs for Natural Light.
 
These players would likely not be in studio when he rerecorded the songs.
However, after recording the first song  – It Might Be Raining – they looked at each other, laughing. It was pure magic. The room worked, the band worked, and the songs really worked
They did two songs the next day and  2 more the third day. Four songs the 4th day.
The demos in the cottage became the album Natural Light.
Our interview covers a lot of ground. Dan opened up about his highs and lows. At one point, not being able to find a label that believed in his music.
He made a decision not to let anyone mess with his dreams,  so he started his own label. Dan says, This is the very best music he’s ever made.
 
He brings tales of acceptance and rejection. Of finding a balance between his dreams and his family.
It Might Be Raining – was written for his children in preparation for the world he/we were leaving them. The songs bring Hope.
I believe Natural Light to be one of the albums of the year.
Dan guests on Saturday’s Stew – also you can find the complete interview on Mulligan Stew Podcast and Terry David Mulligan  YouTube Channel.

 

There is a drive-through guest in the first hour as well.
Colin Linden is playing his way through the Canadian West. June 1-2 in Calgary at The Ironwood and June 3 in Canmore at Artsplace.
He’s just finished touring with good friend T-Bone Burnett.  Also, he’s written three songs included in the new Taj Mahal/Keb Mo Album, Room on the Porch.
We’ll play one of those tracks after a quick 5-minute update.
Lots of new music as well as classics.
A Saturday night mix such as
Frazey Ford, Bon Iver, The Wood Brothers, Govt Mule and Toots, Marcus Trummer, Bruce Springsteen, Allison Russell and Brandi Carlile and William Prince in memory of Josie.
NEXT WEEK – Colin Bluntstone of The Zombies and director of their documentary Hung up on a Dream.
In two weeks Mike Farris – The Sound of Muscle Shoals.

PLAYLIST:

Mulligan Stew – TDMulligan Guests: Colin Linden and Dan Mangan CKUA Radio
When you miss someone-For Josie William Prince Stand in the Joy
True love is hard to find Govt Mule & Toots Dub Side of The Mule
Down to Joy Van Morrison Remembering Now
Pray God Listens The Wood Brothers single
Guests today Colin Linden and Dan Mangan – Natural Light The Stew
Skinny Love Bon Iver For Emma – Forever Ago
Gotta Know Delbert McClinton and Glen Clark Blind, crippled and crazy
Take it too the limit Leif Vollebekk (Angie McMahon) single
Season of the witch Donovan Sunshine Superman
Guests today Dan Mangan and Colin LInden Mulligan Stew
someday baby Bob Dylan Modern Times
Colin Linden Interview TDMulligan Back in the Canadian West
Thicker than mud Taj Mahal and Keb Mo Room on the Porch
The times they are a changin’ Frazey Ford single
The Stew TDM CKUA
Out for blood The Bones of JR Jones single
Coming Up – Dan Mangan New album Natural Light CKUA
Blues’ll give you back your soul Taj Mahal and Keb Mo Room on the Porch
Holding out for you Marcus Trummer From the start
You’re not alone Allison Russell and Brandi Carlile Best of
Coyotes Banff Support for CKUA – over 25 years NEXT – Dan Mangan
Dan Mangan Interview TDMulligan The Stew
It might be raining Dan Mangan Natural Light
Dan Mangan Interview Terry Mulligan CKUA Radio
Diminishing Returns Dan Mangan Natural Light
Dan Mangan Interview complete interview on Mulligan Stew Podcast and TDM YouTube Channel
Cut the brakes Dan Mangan Natural Light
Dan Mangan Interview Complete interview on Mulligan Stew Podcast -and TDM YouTube Channel
Melody Dan Mangan Natural Light
TDMulligan The Stew Dan Mangan Interview
Proximity Dan Mangan Natural Light
Dan Mangan Interview MSPodcast and terrydavidmulligan YouTube Channel
For him Dan Mangan Natural Light
Thank you for Listening and donating TDM
Land of Hope and Dreams Bruce Springsteen and the Street Band New EP – Land of Hope and Dreams

EP 350 | Guest Joel Plaskett and new album ‘Songs From The Gang’

May 26, 2025 Mulligan Stew Podcast

hello

We met over coffee on the streets of Victoria to talk about Songs from The Gang – A Celebration of Joel Plaskett.  A #1 LP on the CKUA Top 30.
His music friends recorded covers of his songs and kept it a secret for a year.
Anyone who knows the music business will admit that is a minor miracle.
Joel’s Gang included Sloan, Alan Doyle, The Sheepdogs, Matt Andersen,  Jenn Grant, etc.
Joel’s stories just spilled out – one after the other.

True Dual Citizens: Winemakers Severine Pinte  & Grant Stanley

May 24, 2025 Tasting Room Radio 0:55:45

hello

True Dual Citizens: Winemakers Severine Pinte  & Grant Stanley

 

THE SHOW

 

 

Severine Pinte –  Chief Winemaker, viticulturist and managing partner

Le Vieux Pin and LaStella  (South Okanagan)

Severine and Ava

 

This weeks TRR is part of an on-going series highlighting stories of cold snaps, badly damaged vines/vineyards and renewal!

Both Le Vieux Pin/La Stella and Spearhead were badly hit by 2 Winter cold snaps that left their prized vineyards hanging by the slimmest of threads.

 

Le Vieux Pin on Black Sage Bench is known for capturing the essence of French Winemaking but doing so with the fruit and character of The New World. Elegance, balance and the pure intensity of fruit.

Executive Winemaker, viticulturist and managing partner Severine Pinte came to Le Vieux Pin and La Stella in 2010 with 14 harvests of international winemaking experience under her belt along with 8 years of vineyard management.

For her, the Okanagan, with its unique terroir and cool climate, has always been intriguing. She is the perfect winemaker to craft world-class Syrah, Viognier and other varietals  native to France,  in the South Okanagan.

Since Le Vieux Pin became certified sustainable in 2021, Severine has been also serving as the chair of Sustainable Wine Growing BC.

In the spring of 2023, Severine Pinte received the 140-year-old honour of being knighted to the “Order of Agricultural Merit” by the Consul General of France.

Severine is also the proud recipient of the Leadership Excellence Award presented to her by the Winegrowers BC on March 12th 2024.

 

Severine also leads the winemaking team at Italian influenced sister winery La Stella!

Like many other winemakers, Severine sourced her 2024 fruit from vineyards in Washington State for their “Crafted in BC” replacement wines.

Severine takes us through the journey from cold snaps, through renewal and into bottle. For many winemakers and growers these two years of damage and recovery are the story of a lifetime. The journey demanded much.  Smarts – Luck – Drive.  Severine has quite a story to tell.

 

 

We taste and talk about the Washington Edition series.

 

2024 Le Vieux Pin – Petit Blanc (chardonnay, viognier, sauvignon blanc, roussanne)

2024 Le Vieux Pin – Ava (53% roussanne, 46% viognier)  Horse Heaven Hills. “familiar yet different.”

2024 La Stella  LaStellina Rosato (Cab Franc/Merlot) Red Mountain and Horse Heaven Hills

2024  La Stella Leggiero Chardonnay. Red Mountain

 

 

www.levieuxpin.ca

 

www.lastella.ca

 

 

 

Grant Stanley – Winemaker and General Manager   Spearhead Winery

Best performing small winery in Canada – Best Winery in Canada –  2024 Wine Align Nationals.

 

Grant is a dual citizen of Canada and New Zealand.

Grant’s grown in Washington and Oregon, crafted in BC 2024 Spearhead wines are called Dual Citizen

When we last talked in February, the conversation was about winning both top awards at The Nationals and the loss of their prime vineyards that won those awards.

Grant brings the roller coaster stories of how, when and why Spearhead managed to find a way to celebrate the winning of top awards and surviving a historic loss. Back to back.

2024 Pinot Gris

2024 Spearhead Dual Citizen Reisling (Carousel Vineyard – Yakima)

2024 Spearhead Dual Citizen Sauvignon Blanc  (Den Hoed Vineyard – Yakima)

2024 Spearhead Dual Citizen  Pinot Gris (Rosa Hills – Yakima)

2024 Spearhead Dual Citizen White Pinot Noir (DeVries Vineyard – Yakima)

2024 Spearhead Dual Citizen Pinot Noir Rose (DeVries Vineyard – Yakima)

 

Grant also has news of new plantings heading into the future.

Congratulations to all at Spearhead.

 

www.spearheadwinery.com

 

 

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

 

More Crafted in BC releases

Dirty Laundry

Niche

Barnyard natural wine festival – Victoria

Clos du Soleil

Kismet

 

 

 

 

Mulligan Stew May 24th 2025-The Stew May 24 Celebrating Bob Dylan’s 84th Birthday and our guest is Joel Plaskett

May 23, 2025 Mulligan Stew

hello

Celebrating Bob Dylan’s 84th Birthday and our guest 
Let’s kick off Summer. #whaddayasay?
It’s our 2025 Bob Fest. 
I think many of us  take Bob Dylan for granted. No matter what generation, he’s been a part of our lives.
Remarkably, he’s not slowing down. For example, Sunday night Bob is  headlining with Willie Nelson at The Gorge. In a vineyard overlooking The Colorado River. The stage is in Washington. The other side of The Gorge is Oregon.
It’s the 2025 edition of Farm Aid. This time, the farmers grow grapes.
He gets around, does Bob.
We’ll play some of his greatest songs. Some by Bob and some by artists influenced by Bob.
Name your favourite artist or song. Somewhere along the way, Bob Dylan influenced the song or the songwriter.
So…do not take the man for granted.  We are the very lucky humans who lived as he made his music.
The guest on Saturday’s Stew is Joel Plaskett. 
We met over coffee on the streets of Victoria to talk about Songs from The Gang – A Celebration of Joel Plaskett.  A #1 LP on the CKUA Top 30.
His music friends recorded covers of his songs and kept it a secret for a year.
Anyone who knows the music business will admit that is a minor miracle.
Joel’s Gang included Sloan, Alan Doyle, The Sheepdogs, Matt Andersen,  Jenn Grant, etc.
Joel’s stories just spilled out – one after the other.
The complete interview can be heard on the Mulligan Stew Podcast and the video version on the tdm YouTube Channel.
 
NEXT WEEK – The guest is Dan Mangan. New album Natural Light. One of the albums of the Year.
In two weeks, Colin Bluntstone of The Zombies 

 

 

PLAYLIST:

Mulligan Stew Joel Plaskett Guests-Bob Dylan Birthday The Stew
Everybody must get stoned (live) Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers Bob Dylan – 30th Anniversary Concert
Leopard – skin PB Hat Bob Dylan Blonde on Blonde
All along the Watchtower (live) Dave Mathews Band Chimes of Freedom
Someday Baby Bob Dylan Modern Times
I shall be released (live) Chrissie Hynde Bob Dylan 30th Anniversary Concert
Todays Guest – Joel Plaskett Also celebrating Bob Dylan’s 84 Birthday Mulligan Stew
Devyn Gale The Southern Residents Folk Signals
It takes a lot to laugh – train to cry Taj Mahal All Blues’d Up
Deane House & River Cafe Coming Up – Lucinda Williams and Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan
Not done yet Lucinda Williams Bob’s Back Pages
The Promised Land (live) Bruce Springsteen Springsteen on Broadway
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door (live) Bob Dylan MTV Unplugged
TDMulligan – The Stew Coming Up – New Dan Mangan and Little Feat and Bob’s Birthday
Diminishing Returns Dan Mangan Natural Light
Hour Two of The Stew Special Guest Joel Plaskett Songs from the Gang
I shall be released (live) The Band and Bob Dylan The Last Waltz (deluxe)
A little Help (live) Ringo Starr etc Live at The Ryman
Strike up the Band Little Feat Strike up the Band
Coming Up – Joel Plaskett Interview Talking – Songs from The Gang A Celebration of Joel Plaskett
A message from Jane Suede and ‘Lene Single
She’s not there The Zombies Best of
Coyotes Banff – Best Breakfast in town Check out the reconfigured Patio CKUA Radio
Joel Plaskett Interview with Terry Mulligan The Stew
You’re mine Frank Turner Songs from The Gang
Joel Plaskett Interview Songs from The Gang album Mulligan Stew
Nowhere with you Allan Syliboy and The Thundermakers Songs from The Gang
Joel Plaskett Mulligan Stew Interview with tdm
Lying on a beach Jenn Grant Songs from The Gang
Complete Interview on Mulligan Stew Podcast TDM
Please Don’t Return Bahamas Songs from The Gang
Check out complete Interview Mulligan Stew Podcast Thank You
I don’t believe you (live) The Band with Bob Dylan The Last Waltz (deluxe edition)
Forever young (live) The Band and Bob Dylan The Last Waltz (deluxe edition)

 

EP 349 | Kevin Hearn. Stories of Portland Parish Pianos/ Gord/Leonard & Lou

May 17, 2025 Mulligan Stew Podcast

hello

Most music fans know Kevin Hearn as the pianist and songwriter for Barenaked Ladies.
Few would know that Kevin was the band leader for Lou Reed for 7 emotional years.
Or that he fought a battle with leukemia for many years, even while touring with BNL.
Gord Downie knew all those stories when he asked Kevin Hearn and Kevin Drew to help him prepare for live performances of his final music project – Secret Path!
Because he had just been down his own darkened  path , Kevin Hearn was able to bring comfort and  strength to the recording of Gord’s final songs.
Kevin takes us though those moments including Gord’s last words to him, about his friendship with Lou Reed and then takes us on another journey – this time to Jamaica.
Kevin’s new solo album is called Portland Parish. Recorded in three locations. A small jungle cottage, the legendary Trident Hotel and the long-abandoned Trident Castle.
Kevin plays originals, covers (Lou Reed and Sun Ra Arkestra) on a collection of creaking pianos weathered by time and nature. If you listen closely, you can hear chirping frogs and dogs barking in the distance. Several of the pianos were damaged and barely playable.
Kevin says, “The idea was to seek out semi-abandoned pianos in spaces said to be haunted and improvise.”

May 17th, 2025 -Crafted in BC Releases with John Weber- Orofino & Benoit Gauthier – Noble Ridge-

May 17, 2025 Tasting Room Radio

hello

Crafted in BC Releases with John Weber- Orofino & Benoit Gauthier – Noble Ridge

 

THE SHOW

When BC”s interior wine growing regions were devasted by two Winter cold snaps,  Wine BC met with the provincial government to suggest that if their wineries could access vineyards from out of province for one year, they could begin replanting’s and still have wines to keep them working and selling.

Otherwise,  many of the farmers, farms and wineries would be lost.

2025 brings those wines.

The wines grown, crushed and made from Washington and Oregon vineyards can now be found on our shelves.

All marked.  Such as “Grown in Washington. Crafted in BC”

These are historic wines. One of a kind. Wait ’til you taste them.

 

This week’s guests are:

 

John Weber – Co-owner/Winemaker Orofino Vineyards  (Similkameen Valley)

All the “crafted” wines are $24.95.

2024 Chenin Blanc  – Few and Far Between Series 

 

I was particularly interested in what plans John had made for his 2025 Crafted in BC releases.

He’s a 15-minute drive to the US border and surely had some farming friends down south.

John got my attention when I tasted his 2024 Chenin Blanc from 50-year old vines from the  Ancient Lakes AVA high above the Columbia River Gorge. Aged in concrete and older oak barrels. 250 cases were produced.

Wonderfully bright with lemon/herbal notes and dusty minerality.  John loves the outstanding waxy lanolin thing going on.

2024 Roussanne – Few and Far Between Series 

Ancient Lakes  AVA.  Same as Chenin above.  Engaging blend of tastes and textures. Stainless steel and older oak barrels. Flowers, herbs. Full round finish.

 

2024 Marsanne – Few and Far Between Series.

Also, Ancient Lakes AVA.  Stone Fruit and a delicious finish.

Ripe Melon, minerals, light spice.  Classic N. Rhone elements.

 

2024 Cinsault Rose – Few and Far Between Series. 

From Naches Heights AVA.

Coller higher elevation. Notes of watermelon, John notes a saline streak, minerality.

Begs to be combined with summer foods. Only 150 cases.

 

2024  Cinsault Rose Mag Bag – Few and Far Between Series 

400 bags. $44.90 – Perfect for picnics, fishing, camping etc.

 

Also, we talk

2022 Sparkling Gamay Noir

John mentions 3 Reisling’s.

Hendsbee Vineyards Clone 21B and Clone 239

And finally, The Home Vineyard Reisling

We finish with a reminder of their sensational  Vineyard Suites and Guest House.

www.orofinovineyards.com

 

 Benoit Gauthier – Director of Winemaking and Viticulture & COO Noble Ridge (OK Fall

Jon Adrian photo            Benoit Gauthier

“As I walk through the vineyard, I can’t help but reflect on the past year. The Winter of 23-25 dealt us a tough hand, leaving many vines struggling to survive. But here we are, emerging stronger, with renewed hope and a vineyard that is well on its way to recovery”   Benoit Gauthier Spring 2025.

 

Every vineyard and winery has its own version of the damage and recovery from two Winter cold snaps.

One element that stands out in all the stories is the resilience of the vines and the farmers.

Benoit Gauthier is a prime example.

Totally dedicated to supporting the vineyards struggle to survive and making sure he and his team did everything possible to save and strengthen the vineyards.

 

Each vineyard with damaged vines took the opportunity to head outside BC seeking replacement grapes to grow and bottle for 2025. Otherwise, some wineries could not/would not survive.

 

Benoit headed to Washington wine country. Below,  the wonderful results, grown in Washington. Crafted in BC.

 

In ancient Rome, a vilicus was a steward/overseer of a large estate/farm, who managed operations.

All Vilicus wines are $21.00 in the tasting room .

 

2024 Vilicus Rose – Crafted with Malbec grapes from Wahluke Slope AVA Columbia Valley. (organic)

Strawberry, ripe cherries on opening.  Strawberry and lime on the palate. Nice rich tones with appreciated texture.

 

2024 Vilicus  Pinot Grigio– From Horse Heaven Hills AVA Washington. (sustainable)

Stone fruit on the nose. Followed by ripe peach, pear and apple on the palate. A long finish carried by minerality.

 

2024 Vilicus Viognier – What an opening!  peach, orange and melon. All ripe.  In the mouth, the texture contains ripe tropical papaya and stone fruit. It’s bright and inviting. Truly a treat. Goose Gap AVA  (sustainable)

 

 2024 Vilicus Pinot Gris/Viognier – Blending these two needs craftsmanship. Well done, Benoit.  Floral notes followed by a crisp clean palate. Hello Summer.  Horse Heaven Hills AVA (sustainable)

 

Benoit also touches on

2019 Reserve Meritage

2021 Blanc de Blanc

And some of the events they plan to create in 2025.

 

Details at www.nobleridge.com

 

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

Crafted in BC releases from

Spearhead

Le Vieux Pin

Niche

Kismet

Clos du Soleil

And more.

Also Barnyard Natural Wine Fest in Victoria

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mulligan Stew May 17th 2025-A Taj Mahal Birthday party. Special guest Kevin Hearn finds & plays legendary pianos in Jamaica

May 16, 2025 Mulligan Stew

hello

Most music fans know Kevin Hearn as the pianist and songwriter for Barenaked Ladies.
Few would know that Kevin was the band leader for Lou Reed for 7 emotional years.
Or that he fought a battle with leukemia for many years, even while touring with BNL.
Gord Downie knew all those stories when he asked Kevin Hearn and Kevin Drew to help him prepare for live performances of his final music project – Secret Path!
Because he had just been down his own darkened path, Kevin Hearn was able to bring comfort and strength to the recording of Gord’s final songs.
Kevin takes us through those moments, including Gord’s last words to him, about his friendship with Lou Reed and then takes us on another journey – this time to Jamaica.
Kevin’s new solo album is called Portland Parish. Recorded in three locations. A small jungle cottage, the legendary Trident Hotel and the long-abandoned Trident Castle.
Kevin plays originals, covers (Lou Reed and Sun Ra Arkestra) on a collection of creaking pianos weathered by time and nature. If you listen closely, you can hear chirping frogs and dogs barking in the distance. Several of the pianos were damaged and barely playable.
Kevin says “the idea was to seek out semi-abandoned pianos in spaces said to be haunted and improvise.”
 
The complete interview can be heard on the Mulligan Stew Podcast and seen on the Terry David Mulligan YouTube Channel.
In hour one, we celebrate one of the greats in modern music – Taj Mahal. Saturday, he turns 82.
New music from Dan Mangan, Honey Bear, the Band, Brandi Carlile, Keiran Kane, Little Feat, Willie Nelson, Mumford and Son, The Wood Bros.
Thanks for any and all mentions!!

 

-TDM

PLAYLIST:

Mulligan Stew Our Guest – Kevin Hearn BN Ladies CKUA
Devotion Honeybear, The Band Single
New Orleans cries when she sings Little Feat strike up the band
Cool me down Keiran Kane Dead Reckoning
You without me Brandi Carlile (elton john) who believes in angels
Banks of the old Bandera Willie Nelson Oh what a beautiful world
Mulligan Stew Kevin Hearn our guest Hour 2 Up Next- Taj Mahal
Senor Blues Taj Mahal (happy birthday Taj) Senor Blues
Mailbox blues Taj Mahal Sextet Live at the Church in Tulsa
Room on the Porch Taj Mahal, Keb Mo, Ruby Amanfu Room on the porch
Deane House – River Cafe Guest tonight is Kevin Hearn Portland Parish
What you gonna do N Miss. all stars (mavis) Up and Running
diminishing returns Dan Mangan Natural Light
Harvest Mumford and Sons Harvest
How sweet it is Marvin Gaye Hitsville
Mulligan Stew with TDM Guest tonight Kevin Hearn BNL Coming UP – New Wood Bros
Witness The Wood bros. single
The Stew – CKUA Radio Hour Two – Kevin Hearn Interview New album Portland Parish
Etta James At Last At Last
Helpless Molly Tuttle & Old Crow Med Show Helpless
Dreams and second chances Skydiggers Dreams and second chances
Old folks Boogie (live) Little Feet Waiting for Columbus (super deluxe)
The Stew TDMulligan Kevin Hearn – coming UP
Mr Tambourine Man Bob Dylan Live 62-66 Rare Performances
waiting for the world to change Taj Mahal Keb Mo Room on the porch for everyone
stop and listen Blackie and Rodeo Kings O Glory
Coyotes Banff supporting for over 25 years Coming UP Kevin Hearn Portland Parish
Kevin Hearn Interview with TDMulligan CKUA
The only place to be Gord Downie Secret Path
Kevin Hearn Interview complete interview mulligan stew podcast and TDM YouTube channel
Tea at the Trident Kevin Hearn Portland Parish
Kevin Hearn Interview also on Mulligan Stew Podcast and tdm youtube channel
in the shade Kevin Hearn Portland Parish
Kevin Hearn Interview TDMulligan complete int on MSPodcast and tdm YouTube Channel
3 dollar shots Kevin Hearn Portland Parish
Complete Interview on Mulligan Stew Podcast and Terry David Mulligan YouTube Channel
Faithlessly yours Art Bergmann Remember her Name

EP 348 | Kurtis Kolt on new “Crafted in BC” wines and Launches 2025 Top Drop in Van/Calgary

May 10, 2025 Mulligan Stew Podcast

hello

We’re featuring Wine Educator and Event Creator Kurtis Kolt. 
Top Drop 2025,  his sensational small wine fest, runs next week in Vancouver and Calgary.
 
 
Wine Educator, judge and Event Co-Ordinator Kurtis Kolt.
His thoughts on 2025 Washington Grown/Crafted in BC Wines
His impressive  Top Drop Events this coming week in Vancouver and Calgary.
 
Kurtis Kolt is a Vancouver-based wine & hospitality consultant who writes about wine, presents seminars, hosts events, judges competitions, works with restaurants on their wine programs, and so on.
Kurtis has been running restaurants around Vancouver, eventually receiving the ‘Sommelier of the Year’ award at the 2010 Vancouver International Wine Festival.
KK is also the co-founder of Top Drop, a series of terroir-focused trade and consumer festival-style events, dubbed
TOP DROP In Vancouver, May 13 and Calgary, May 15.
Kurtis books very select wineries (and their winemakers)
Check out the participants – https://vancouver.topdrop.ca/en/exhibitors
Dubbed “The One Wine Tasting of the Year You Shouldn’t Miss,” by Western Living magazine, Top Drop Vancouver and Top Drop Calgary‘s Main Events return with continued focus on sustainably-farmed, handcrafted wines offering a distinct sense of place, without heavy-handed winemaking trickery to get in the way.
His latest project is Free Spirit!, a celebration of the world of non-alc wine, beer, and spirits!
Kurtis joins us on Tasting Room Radio to also talk about the Grown in Washington – Crafted in BC 2025 Wines,  now being seen on BC shelves.

May 10th, 2025- Michael Bartier Presents 2025 Crafted in BC Wines – Kurtis Kolt presents Top Drop 2025

May 10, 2025 Tasting Room Radio 0:45:53

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Michael Bartier Presents 2025 Crafted in BC Wines – Kurtis Kolt presents Top Drop 2025

THE SHOW

Michael Bartier – Co-founder/Winemaker Bartier Bros (Black Sage Road)

Bartier Bros

When I last talked to co-owner and winemaker Michael Bartier  at Bartier Bros on Black Sage Road,  South Okanagan, he had a total of 17 vineyards damaged due to 2 cruel cold snaps.

Bartier Bros Patio

I reconnected with Michael to see if he and the vineyards survived.

I was also very interested in his “Grown in Washinton – Crafted in BC ” Spring releases.

He called the series of wines Pristine. Named after the beautiful vineyards he partnered with in Washington State.

Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery (@bartierbros) • Instagram photos and videos

Michael still  follows his mission statement “over deliver by 50%. Make a $20 wine that tastes like a $30 wine.”

 

2024 Pristine White Blend   – $17.99  Reisling,  Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay (Columbia Valley)

2024 Pristine Sauvignon Blanc – $18.99 Fresh, clean and gloriously round in the mouth. (Horse Heaven Hills)

2024 Pristine Chardonnay – $18.99  40 year old vines. Elegant and memorable. (Soaring Eagle, Wahluke Slope)

2024 Pristine Reisling – $18.99 Classically crisp with a loooong finish.  (Rattlesnake Hills)

2024 Pristine Rose – $17.99 Cab driven but notes of Pinot, Chard and Reisling (Columbia Valley)

2024 Pristine Vin Gris (Pinot Gris Rose) – $19.99 Dark grapes treated like white wine. (Rattlesnake Hills)

2024 Pristine Cabernet Sauvignon Rose – $19.99 40-year-old vines. Great structure/price.(Soaring Eagle)

 

When we get done talking about these new wines, Michael takes us through the new vineyards.

Its all great news!!

Chardonnay and Cab Franc are being restored. Merlot and Semillon have been replanted

The Syrah has been removed (it didn’t do well) but it’s being replaced by Chenin Blanc.

As much as Michael Bartier loved the Washington experience, he can’t wait to get back to his own vineyards.

 

www.bartierbros.com

 

Kurtis Kolt –  Wine judge, mentor, educator and event organizer.

Kurtis-Kolt

We’re featuring Kurtis Kolt .

Top Drop 2025,  his amazing small wine fest runs next week in Vancouver and Calgary.

Kurtis brings his thoughts on 2025 Washington Grown/Crafted in BC Wines

 

 

Kurtis  is a Vancouver-based wine & hospitality consultant who writes about wine, presents seminars, hosts events, judges’ competitions, works with restaurants on their wine programs, and so on.

Kurtis received  the ‘Sommelier of the Year’ award at the 2010 Vancouver International Wine Festival.

KK is also the co-founder of Top Drop, a series of terroir-focused trade and consumer festival-style events, dubbed

“the nerdiest, most awesome wine festival in Canada.”

 

The 2025 TOP DROP takes place  In Vancouver May 13 and Calgary May 15.

 

Kurtis books very select wineries (and their winemakers)

Check out the impressive list of  participants – https://vancouver.topdrop.ca/en/exhibitors

 

 

Dubbed “The One Wine Tasting of the Year You Shouldn’t Miss,” by Western Living magazine, Top Drop Vancouver and Top Drop Calgary‘s Main Events return with continued focus on sustainably-farmed, handcrafted wines offering a distinct sense of place, without heavy-handed winemaking trickery to get in the way.

Kurtis’s latest project is Free Spirit!, a celebration of the world of non-alc wine, beer, and spirits!

Kurtis joins us on Tasting Room Radio to also talk about the Grown in Washington – Crafted in BC 2025 Wines,  now being seen on BC shelves and background of the upcoming Top Drop events.

 

www.topdrop.ca

www.winebc.com

www.kurtiskolt.com

@Kurtis Kolt

 

 

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

 

Le Vieux Pin

Noble Ridge

Niche Wines

Orofino

Clos du Soleil

Kismet

Spearhead

Barnyard in Victoria

And more to come